Biology

The Evolutionary Ecology of Plant-Bodyguard Defense Mutualisms

As a way to defend themselves against attack from herbivores and pathogens, some plants recruit bodyguards: animals that defend the plant against its enemies in return for food or shelter that the plant provides. This talk will discuss the evolution and ecology of plant bodyguard defense strategy, evaluating hypotheses about why some plants have traits that attract bodyguards and others do not.

The Biology SAC presents a board game night for Biology students and any students interested in Biology and/or board games! There will be snacks and drinks! Come by to play or just chat.

Lucia Snyderman
“From extirpation to extinction: Holocene range collapse of the Great Auk” 

Sophia Romani
“Molecular detection, characterization, and prevalence of hemotropic mycoplasma in beef cattle.”

Departments of Biology and Chemistry & Biochemistry joint reception for graduating seniors and their guests, including Molecular Biology & Biochemistry seniors, in the McCardell Bicentennial Hall Great Hall.

There is a tiny world on the surface of every leaf. A suite of amazing leaf traits, most of which are invisible to the naked eye, mediate interactions in a rich ecosystem of plant enemies and friends. This talk will unveil hidden life on the leaf and focus on an easily overlooked cooperative interaction between plants friendly mites. By highlighting the drama playing out on the leaves of common local trees, we will uncover the hidden secrets of the leaf surface.